Smallest Island Nation | Dimensions Info Smallest Island Nation The smallest island nation is Nauru (official title is Republic of Nauru). The total area is 21 square kilometers (8.1 sq mi). The December 2 to 6 census puts the population at 9,275. The 2009 estimate is 14,019. The density is 476.2/km2. The island can be found at the South Pacific. General Information Nauru is the tiniest independent republic on the planet. It also holds the distinction of being the only republic that doesn’t have a capital. Based on archaeological findings, the island was first inhabited by Polynesians and Micronesians over 3,000 years ago. A dozen tribes were on the island. This can be seen by the 12 points on its flag. Early History The smallest island nation in the world had its first European visitor in 1798. It was a whaler named Captain John Fearn. Other Europeans would get wind of it. European criminals and deserters would often escape to the island. The local inhabitants began trading food for firearms. This practice would lead to a tribal war.

The Nauruan Tribal War lasted for ten years. It devastated the island and reduced the population by 1/3. The 1800s and World War I The war ended in 1888 when the nation fell under German rule. The war ended when the Germans forbade firearms and alcohol. The island nation became part of the German Marshall Islands Protectorate. Christian missionaries began arriving that year as well. The Germans lost Nauru to the UK during World War I. The island nation would become part of the UK, Australia and New Zealand. These countries took control of the phosphate mining in Nauru. World War II and Independence The country fell to the Japanese in World War II. Over a thousand native inhabitants were sent to the Chuuk Islands for slave work. It was liberated by the Allies in 1945. The UN designated administrative rights to the UK, New Zealand and Australia. Nauru was granted independence in 1966. Operation and ownership of the phosphate deposits were given to the country. Population Indigenous peoples make up most of the country’s population. 58% are native to the island while 26% are Pacific Islanders. Europeans and some Chinese constitute the remaining eight percent.

The dominant religion is Christianity. The smallest island nation also has numerous minority religions. The most prominent is Baha'i. The per capita income is $2,500 (2006 estimates). It still doesn’t have a capital, but Yaren is the seat of government. It is also the most populated area. Follow Us! Top 10 Smallest Countries On Earth - The Mysterious World The Mysterious World Top 10 Smallest Countries On Earth 32 Share on Facebook Share Tweet on Twitter There are 196 countries in the world. Only 24 of them has land area less than 1000 square kilometers. Some of these small countries including Vatican City, Monaco and Nauru are smaller than cities like New York, Tokyo, Chicago and Atlanta. Here the list of 10 smallest countries on Earth. 10 Malta, 316 square kilometers Malta is an archipelago of seven Islands located in the Mediterranean sea. This small country only has an area of 316 square kilometers. Only three Islands named Malta, Gozo and Comino are inhabited in this archipelago. These three Islands are also the largest Islands in Malta.

The country has a population of 4,46,547, make it one of the densely populated countries in the world. The country has great historical and cultural significance. It is one of the most remarkable prehistoric sites in the world. The ‘hypogeum’, a 5000 year old underground structure located in Paola town of Malta represents this fact. There are also seven prehistoric temples in Malta, dated back to 3600 B.C- 700 B.C.A number of civilizations including the Phoenicians, Romans, Sicilians, French and British have ruled Malta in different period of time. Malta gained independence in 1964. English and Maltese are the main languages of this country. Today tourism is one of the main sources of income for Malta. The prehistoric monuments and beautiful beaches of Malta attracts about one million tourists every year. 9 Maldives, 298 Square Kilometers The Maldives archipelago located in the Indian ocean comprises 1090 Islands in total. But there is only 200 inhabited Islands in Maldives.

This beautiful country only has a land area of 298 square kilometers and a population of 3,93,500. The Maldives have been inhabited since the 5th century B.C. The Portuguese, Dutch and British empires have dominated this country respectively in 16th, 17th and 19th century. Finally Maldives became an independent country in 1965. Many Islands of Maldives appear to be only 1.5 meters above mean sea level. This low ground level elevation makes Maldives as the lowest country in the world. Unfortunately the rise in sea level due to global warming is about to erode away many Islands of Maldives in nearby future. At the same time the white-sand beaches, coral reefs, rich marine life and turquoise water make Maldives as one of most beautiful and popular tourist destinations in the world. 8 Saint Kitts and Nevis, 261 square kilometers credit of image : By Nesnad At English Language Wikipedia CC BY SA 3.0 The St.Kitts and Nevis comprises two beautiful Islands located in the Caribbean. The earliest inhabitants of St.Kitts and Nevis were Carib people.

These Islands were first explored by Christopher Columbus in 1498. The British occupied St.Kitts and Nevis respectively in 1623 and 1628. The French also settled on these Islands in 1627. The British and French fought for a century to get full control of St.Kitts and Nevis. In 1713 these Islands became a single British colony. The St.Kitts and Nevis became an associated state in 1967 and gained independence in 1983. This small Caribbean country has a total land area of 261 square kilometers, St. Kitts is 168 square kilometers and Nevis is 93 square kilometers. Today the country has a population of 51538. Both Islands are famed for their pristine beaches, green valleys rain forests and pleasant climate. The economy of the country is mainly based on sugar cultivation and tourism. 7 Marshal Islands, 181 square kilometers The Marshal Islands comprise hundreds of Islands and thousands of Islets connected by 29 coral atolls. There are only 24 inhabited Islands with a population of 68000.

The Marshal Islands were occupied by Spanish, German, Japanese, British and Americans in between the 16th century and 20th century. Marshal Islands gained Independence in 1986 under the compact of free association with the United States. The U.S dollar is the official currency of the Marshal Islands. The people of Marshal Islands speak both Marshallese and English. The major industries of this small Island country include handicraft, copra, fish processing and tourism. The crystal clear blue waters of this nation home to 160 species of coral and 800 species of fishes. Marshal Islands is also one of the finest destinations for scuba diving and snorkeling. 6 Liechtenstein, 160 square kilometers Liechtenstein is a small Alpine country located between Austria and Switzerland. This tiny national only has a land area of 160 square kilometers and a population of 37132. It is the only country in the world that is entirely located in the Alps. According to GDP per capita (U.S $25000) Liechtenstein is the richest country in the world. The unemployment rate of Liechtenstein also very low, under 1.5 percentage.

Liechtenstein has a unitary parliamentary system and a constitutional monarchy. The administrative center of the nation housed in the capital city of Vaduz. Liechtenstein has 11 municipalities and Schaan is the largest city in the country with a land area of 25 square kilometers. German is the official language of Liechtenstein. Metal manufacturing, ceramic, dental products and electronics are major industries in Liechtenstein. This Alpine country is also one of the popular winter sport destinations in the world. 5 San Marino, 61 square kilometers With a land area of 61 square kilometers San Marino is the third smallest country in Europe. This small country is entirely surrounded by Italy. San Marino is also the oldest republic in Europe, founded in 301 A.D. San Marino only has a population of 30000. The country has nine municipalities and the city of San Marino is the capital. San Marino is also one of the richest country in the world in accordance with GDP. San Marino is also famed for having more vehicles than its population. The economy of San Marino mainly based on tourism, banking and textiles.

4 Tuvalu, 26 square kilometers The small Tuvalu nation consists of five atolls and four Islands, located in the Western Pacific. There are only 11000 inhabitant in this tony Island nation. Tuvalu is one of the lowest countries in the world. The highest point of this small nation is about 4.5 meters from mean sea level. This makes the small Islands of Tuvalu to vulnerable to sea level rise. There is only one airport in this country, located in Funafuti Atoll. The first ever inhabitants of Tuvalu were Polynesians in first century A.D. In 1976 Tuvalu became a single British colony. This Island nation gained independence in 1978. Tuvalu is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. Funafuti is the capital of Tuvalu. This large atoll is home to 6194 people. The capital city is known for its 18 kilometers long and 14 kilometers wide lagoon. It is also one of the finest destination for swimming and snorkeling. The pleasant climate and beautiful beaches also make Tuvalu to a finest tourist destinations in the world.

3 Nauru, 21 square kilometers credit of image : By Lepidlizard – Own Work, Wikimedia Nauru is the smallest Island country in the world with an area of 21 square kilometers. Nauru is also the second most least populous country in the world, only has 9378 inhabits. It is a great phosphate rock Island. The extraction of this valuable resource became the main source of income for country between 1960 and 1970. But the excessive mining leads to depletion of the great resource. This Island nation is surrounded by coral reefs and known for white-sandy beaches. But tourism in Nauru is limited. The phosphate mining, coconut products and offshore banking are the main industries in Nauru. 2 Monaco, 2 square kilometers The principality of Monaco located in Western Europe is the second smallest country in the world with land area of 2 square kilometers. But this small country has a population of 36950 and this make it most densely populated country in the world. Monaco is a constitutional monarchy headed by the members of Grimaldi family. This small country has only one municipality. In that way Monaco is both an Independent Nation and a city.

Monaco is one of the wealthiest countries in the world with high GDP($6.7 billion). Monaco is well known for its Monte Carlo casino. It is also one of main economic factors of the country. The country also demands no income tax and low business tax because of its high income from the Monte Carlo casino. Monaco Grand Pix is the another important attraction in Monaco. It is one of the most popular races in the world. 1 Vatican City, 0.44 square kilometers The Vatican City is the smallest country in the world, surrounded by the city of Rome. This small country covers just an area of 100 acres. Vatican city is also known ‘The Holy See’. The Vatican is also least populous country in the world, has only 842 inhabitants. St.Peter’s basilica – The largest Catholic church in the world also located in Vatican city. The Vatican is a monarchical state headed by the bishop of Rome. The railway lines in Vatican city traverse only about 1.27 kilometers and it is the shortest railway system around the world. The St.Peter’s Basilica, Vatican museums and Sistine chapel are the main attraction of Vatican City.

Every year this small country attracts more than 4 million visitors. Vatican city was not that small until the unification of Italy in 1870. The Papal states in Italian peninsula were ruled by popes for more than a century (from 700 – 1870). Those territories covered more than 44000 square kilometers at that time. But after Italian unification in 1870 majority of the Papal states became part of Italy. It was Lateran treat, The agreement between the Kingdom of Italy and Holy See made the Vatican City as an independent country on 11th February, 1929. The 10 Smallest Countries In The World - WorldAtlas.com World Facts The 10 Smallest Countries In The World A list of the 10 smallest countries by total land area. Some of the coziest nations, islands, and places on the planet. A small island in turquoise waters With over 194 countries in the world, it's easy to think the word "country" equates to a massive land area with large numbers of people. Some nations are so small that cities within other nations are giants compared to them.

Mostly found in Europe, the Carribean, and the Pacific, there are many countries in the world with an area of less than 400 square kilometers. The top 10 smallest countries in the world cover a total area of 1491.4 km² which is smaller than the area of the city of Huston, Texas (1625.2 km²) With their own governments and own culture, these small countries are some of the richest, most remote, and most intriguing places in the world. Let's take a look at the 10 smallest countries in the world today: 10 – Grenada - 344 km² Image via: 4photos.net An island nation in the Caribbean, Grenada is also known as “The Island of Spice." The world's largest producer of nutmeg and mace crops, this nation located northwest of Trinidad and Tobago was colonized by the French from 1649 to 1763, which explains the very strong influence of French tradition and culture in the country. A popular tourist destination, you'll find French-influenced architecture and art all around the island, with cricket as the most popular sport.

9 – Malta - 316 km² Image via: maltaholidays.uk.com Malta is another island country, however, its located in the Mediterranean Sea. 3 major islands make up the Republic of Malta: Gozo, Comino, and the largest, Malta. This small country has a population of over 450,000 inhabitants, making it one of the most densely populated countries in the world. Another popular tourist destination, foreigners from all over the world come to Malta for its sunny weather, attractive beaches, over 7,000 years of intriguing history, and a still vibrant nightlife. 8 – Maldives - 300 km² Image via: maparchitects.dk A popular tourist destination in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is the smallest country in Asia in terms of area and population. There are over 1,192 coral islands in the Maldives, which are spread over 90,000 sq.km, making it one of the world's most dispersed countries. The country was once the colony of many empires, the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British, but became an independent country in 1965.

Today, the Maldives has a vibrant tourism economy due to its famous white sand beaches and crystal blue waters. 7 – Saint Kitts and Nevis - 261 km² Image via: roomsuggestion.com The Mother Colony of the West Indies, these 2 islands in the Caribbean were some of the first islands to be occupied by Europeans. Its economy is dependent on tourism, agriculture, and small manufacturing industries. The islands also provide fantastic diving sites due to abundant marine life. A major sugar exporter for centuries, the large plantations are now beautiful estates that have been converted into hotels and resorts. 6 – Liechtenstein - 160 km² Image via: wikipedia.org A German-speaking country, this is the only nation in the world to be completely located in the Alps. Located between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein is the richest country in the world by GDP per capita, with the lowest unemployment rate (1.5%). Getting into the country is a little tricky without an airport. Visitors must go through Switzerland's Zurich Airport to reach this Alpine country that's still ruled by a prince.

5 – San Marino - 61 km² Image via: commons.wikimedia.org Surrounded completely by Italy, San Marino is also known as the Most Serene Republic of San Marino. Claiming to be the oldest surviving sovereign state in the world, it is also one of the wealthiest in terms of GDP per capita. The 3rd smallest country in Europe, it has a population of only 30,000, boasting of one of the lowest unemployment rates in the world. 4 – Tuvalu - 26 km² Image via: oceanislandtravel.com Formerly known as the Ellice Islands, Tuvalu is located in the Pacific Ocean, north east of Australia. There are about 10,000 inhabitants, with 8km of roads, and only 1 hospital present on the main island. The country was once a British territory but became independent in 1978. A difficult place to get to, tourism is not very significant. In 2010, less than 2,000 visitors came to Tuvalu, with 65% of them coming for business.

3 – Nauru - 21 km² Image via: jouljet.blogspot.ca An island nation located east of Australia, Nauru is the smallest island country in the world. It was known in the 1980's for a booming phosphate mining but is now a quiet island off the radar of tourists. Formerly known as Pleasant Island, its phosphate resources are now depleted, leading to a 90% national unemployment rate, with the remaining 10% employed by the government. Nauru is also known as the country with the most obese people in the world, with 97% of its men and 93% of women being obese or overweight. Because of this, Nauru is also home to the world's highest level of type 2 diabetes, with 40% of its population suffering from the ailment. 2 – Monaco - 2 km² Image via: burgessyachts.com Located on the French Riviera, Monaco is home to the largest number of millionaires and billionaires per capita in the world. Known for its gambling and luxury goods and services industry, Monaco is a favourite playground of the rich and famous.

Bordered by France on 3 sides and one side by the Mediterranean Sea, the residents of Monaco are mostly French-speaking. With a population of over 36,000, Monaco is the world's most densely populated country. The most popular annual event is the Formula 1 race, with tracks passing through the city streets. 1 – Vatican - 0.44 km² Image via: sentiarometours.com The world's smallest country is the Vatican, also known as the Holy See. This country fits within the Italian capital city of Rome, and is the center of the Catholic Church. It is also home to the biggest church in the world – St. Peter's Basilica, and holds some of the most significant art works of the Renaissance such as The Pieta and the Creation of Adam. Its income comes from the voluntary contributions of over 1 billion members of the Roman Catholic Church around the world. The remainder of its economy comes from the sales of postage stamps, tourist mementos, and admission fees of museums.

The 50 Smallest Countries In The World Rank Nauru - the world's smallest island nation in Yaren, Nauru (Google Maps) - Virtual Globetrotting Yaren , Nauru (NR) Nauru, officially the Republic of Nauru and formerly known as Pleasant Island, is an island nation in Micronesia in the South Pacific. Its nearest neighbour is Banaba Island in Kiribati, 300 km to the east. Nauru is the world's smallest island nation, covering just 21 square kilometres (8.1 sq mi). Google Maps The World's Twenty Smallest Countries - worldfactsinc worldfactsinc The World's Twenty Smallest Countries Found below is a list of the world’s twenty smallest sovereign states.These tiny countries cover a combined land area of 5,340.46 square kilometers between them, meaning that they could all fit into either the sovereign state of Brunei - the world’s 172nd largest country, the American state of Delaware - the country’s second smallest state, the Asian Island of Bali - the world’s one hundred and eighth largest island or the Chinese city of Shanghai, all with room to spare.

THE VATICAN CITY STATE. The Vatican City State covers an area of just 0.44 square kilometers and has a temporary population of 770 people. This tiny country, which is an enclave of the Italian city of Rome, has His Holiness the Pope as it’s head of state and is is not only the world's smallest country but the world’s smallest monarchy, the world's smallest city state and the world's smallest land locked country. As a city state the country does not have a capital city. MONACO. Monaco is a principality which covers an area of 2.02 square kilometers and has a population of 32,000 people. Also classified as a city state, Monaco is an enclave located on the south east coast of France and is renowned for being a tax haven, for being the home of the world famous Monte Carlo Rally, Monaco Grand Prix and the Monte Carlo Casino, for having the world’s largest police force per head of population and for having the world's largest resident population of billionaires. As a city state the country does not have a capital city, although Monte Carlo is often mistakenly listed as such. NAURU.

Nauru, pictured above, is an island in the South Pacific, which is not just the world's smallest island nation but also the world's smallest republic. The country covers an area of just 21 square kilometers and has a population of 13,000 people. The island is renowned for having only one road, a nineteen kilometer coastal ring road, and for it's airport and runway which are located along a beach. TUVALU. This South Pacific island nation is a constitutional monarchy which consists of sixteen reef islands which cover an area of 26 square kilometers with a population of 10,500 people. Much of the tiny country's GDP comes from tourism and the sale of it's much sought after internet domain name of .tv . SAN MARINO. Located in the Appenine Mountains of Italy, this tiny enclave is classified as Europe's oldest republic, having been in existence since the year 301. San Marino covers an area of 61 square kilometers and has a population of 29,000 people. LIECHTENSTEIN. Liechtenstein is a principality located in central Europe.

The country covers an area of 160 square kilometers and has a population of 34,000 people. The country is renowned for being one of only two double land locked countries in the world, which means that it is a land locked country surrounded by other land locked countries. THE MARSHALL ISLANDS. Located in the north Pacific Ocean, the Republic of the Marshall Islands are a group of 1,156 islands which cover an area of 181 square kilometers with a popualtion of 58,000 people.The island nation, which is in free association with the United States, is home to the world's largest shark sanctuary, which covers an ocean area of two million square kilometers. ST KITTS & NEVIS. Are two volcanic islands which make up part of the Leeward Islands of the Caribbean Sea. Covering an area of 261 square kilometers and with a population of 39,000 people this tiny federal constitutional monarchy is the smallest sovereign state located in the Americas. THE MALDIVES. The Maldives are an island nation which consists of two chains of twenty six islands located in the Indian Ocean.

Covering an area of 300 square kilometers and with a population of 340,000 people, this tiny republic is the smallest sovereign state located in the continent of Asia. MALTA. Comprising of just three inhabited islands which cover an area of 316 square kilometers, this Mediterranean republic has a population of 400,000 people, making it the world's most densely populated sovereign state. GRENADA. Located in part of the island group known as the Lesser Grenadines, located in the Caribbean Sea, Grenada is a constitutional monarchy made up of six islands which cover an area of 344 square kilometers with a population of 90,000 people. Despite it's size, Grenada is the world's largest exporter of nutmeg. THE SEYCHELLES. The Seychelles are an archipelago of 155 islands located in the Indian Ocean. With a land area of 452 square kilometers and a population of just 81,000 people, this tiny republic is the smallest sovereign state in the African continent. ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES.

Is an island nation which consists of six hundred islands which cover a land area of 280 square kilometers. The constitutional monarchy makes up part of the Windward Islands Group located in the Caribbean Sea and has a population of 117,000 people. The country is best known for it's vast crops of bananas, which make up sixty per cent of the country's GDP. BARBADOS. The island of Barbados is the eastern most island of the Lesser Antilles Island Group located in the Atlantic Ocean. This constitutional monarchy covers an area of 430 square kilometers and has a population of 280,000 people. Despite being located in the Atlantic Ocean, the island has been classified as the Caribbean’s most visited tourist destination. ANTIGUA & BARBUDA. Is a twin island constitutional monarchy which make up part of the Leeward Islands Group located in the Caribbean Sea. The country covers an area of 442 square kilometers and has a population of 69,000 people.The islands are renowned for their many beaches, three hundred and sixty five to be exact, which is just as well as sixty per cent of the country's GDP is dependent upon tourism. PALAU.

Is an island nation which consists of two hundred and fifty islands located in the larger, Caroline Islands Group, of the north Pacific Ocean. This tiny republic, which is in free association with the United States, covers an area of 459 square kilometers and has a population of 20,000 people. ANDORRA. Is a land locked country located in the Pyrenees Mountains of Europe. This tiny co - principality covers an area of 468 square kilometers and has a population of 70,000 people. The country is renowned for it’s unique form of monarchy which has both the President of France and the Bishop of Ugrell in Spain as it’s heads of state. The country is also renowned for having no airport or train stations located anywhere within it’s borders. SAINT LUCIA. Is a volcanic island located in the Caribbean Sea. This island constitutional monarchy covers an area of 616 square kilometers and has a population of 162,000 people. Saint Lucia is renowned for it's two offshore volcanic plugs, which are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and a drive in volcano located in the dormant caldera of the island's Mount Qualibou.

THE FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA. This island chain of over six hundred islands is located in the north Pacific Ocean and covers an ocean area of 2,6000,000 square kilometers. The island republic, which is made up of the four states of Chuuk, Kosrae, Pohnpei and Yap, cover a land area of 702 square kilometers and has a population of 103,000 people. SINGAPORE. This island city state consists of sixty three islands which cover an area of 710 square kilometers with a massive population of 5.3 million people. The island is located along the Strait of Singapore which lies just north of Indonesia and south of Malaysia in the continent of Asia. Singapore is renowned for having the world's lowest drug use, for being the world's fourth leading financial centre and eleventh largest foreign reserve. The country's main port is the world's largest trans shipment port and fourth busiest container port and it's international airport at Changi has won more awards (430) than any other airport in the world. As a city state the country does not have a capital city. LIKE THIS?

Show your friends - Tweet Isolated in the Pacific, the island of Nauru, world's smallest republic, was once world's richest country because of phosphate resources. Nauru holds currently diabetes and obesity highest levels though weightlifting is the national sport. Following state | Matthieu Paley more » Scene at the "Locations", a poor area where foreign workers from other Pacific islands (Tuvalu, Kiribati, Fidji etc) were housed, after they came to work in the Phosphate mining industry...Nauru, officially the Republic of Nauru is an island nation in Micronesia in the South Pacific. Nauru was declared independent in 1968 and it is the world's smallest independent republic, covering just 21 square kilometers..Nauru is a phosphate rock island and its economy depends almost entirely on the phosphate deposits that originate from the droppings of sea birds. Following its exploitation it briefly boasted the highest per-capita income enjoyed by any sovereign state in the world during the late 1960s and early 1970s..In the 1990s, when the phosphate reserves were partly exhausted the government resorted to unusual measures.

Nauru briefly became a tax haven and illegal money laundering centre. From 2001 to 2008, it accepted aid from the Australian government in exchange for housing a Nauru detention centre, with refugees from various countries including Afghanistan and Iraq..Most necessities are imported on the island..Nauru has parliamentary system of government. It had 17 changes of administration between 1989 and 2003. In December 2007, former weight lifting medallist Marcus Stephen became the President. Smallest republic in the world family Top 10 Densely Populated Nations - Listverse Top 10 Densely Populated Nations Nartjai August 30, 2007 Most of us are fortunate enough to live in countries with a lot of wide open space and a few friendly neighbours. But there are some countries that are very densely populated. This is a list of the ten most densely populated nations in the world. 1.

Monaco [ Wikipedia ] Monaco is the world’s most densely populated country and second-smallest independent nation; with a population of just 32,410 and an area of 1.96 square kilometers (485 acres), Monaco is the world’s smallest French-speaking sovereignty. Travel the world from your living room with the breathtaking New Concise World Atlas at Amazon.com! 2. Singapore [ Wikipedia ] Singapore is a highly populated island nation located on the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. A popular destination for both tourism and business, Singapore is also one of the richest countries in the world because of its highly developed economy. Singapore has been rated as the most business-friendly economy in the world, with thousands of foreign expatriates working in multi-national corporations. The city-state also employs tens of thousands of foreign blue-collared workers from around the world. With a total population density of over 6300 people per square kilometer, it ranks 2nd in the world. 3. Vatican City [ Wikipedia ] Landlocked within the Italian city of Rome with approximately 44 hectares (108.7 acres), Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world.

As the center of the Catholic religion, the tiny city-state only holds about 821 citizens, but due to the small area, it is ranked 3rd in population density. 4. The Maldives [ Wikipedia ] The Maldives is an island nation consisting of a group of atolls located in the Indian Ocean. The Maldives’ twenty-six atolls encompass a territory featuring 1,192 islets, roughly two hundred of which are inhabited by local communities. According to a 2006 census, there is a population of 298,842 living on a total area of only 298 square kilometers. 5. Bahrain [ Wikipedia ] Bahrain is a borderless island country in the Persian Gulf and is the smallest Arab nation. In a region currently experiencing an unprecedented oil boom, Bahrain has the fastest growing economy in the Arab region, which translates to a fast growing population due to immigration and guest workers from around the world. There are approximately 987 people per square kilometer on this tiny island. 6. Bangladesh [ Wikipedia ] Bangladesh is small country located in South Asia almost surrounded by India. Bangladesh is among the most highly and densely populated countries in the world.

With a land area of 144,000 square kilometers (55,600 sq mi), the population density is remarkable considering the fact that Russia’s entire population is slightly smaller than Bangladesh’s. 7. Nauru [ Wikipedia ] Nauru is an island nation in the Micronesian South Pacific covering only 21 square kilometers, making it the world’s smallest island nation, the smallest independent republic, and the only republican state in the world without an official capital. There are about 13,048 residents living on this tiny island. 8. Taiwan [ Wikipedia ] Taiwan is an island in East Asia off the coast of mainland China. After losing the Chinese Civil War in 1949, Chiang Kai-shek and about 1.3 million refugees fled mainland China to set up the Republic of China (ROC) in Taipei, Taiwan’s largest city. The political status of Taiwan is a controversial topic today, but thanks to an industrialized economy, it is one of the wealthiest and most densely populated countries in Asia. 9. Barbados [ Wikipedia ] Situated east of the Caribbean Sea, Barbados is an independent island nation in the western Atlantic Ocean.

The small country is a major tourist destination for vacationers from all over. Barbados’s total land area is about 430 square kilometers, and with one of the highest standards of living and literacy rates worldwide, has a relatively high population of about 279,000. 10. Malta [ Wikipedia ] Malta is a small and densely populated island nation comprising an archipelago of seven islands in the Mediterranean Sea. After joining the European Union in 2004, the country has seen an increase in investments and strength of the economy. The resident population of Malta, as of 2005 was estimated at 404,039 and Malta’s population density of 1,282 per square kilometer is by far the highest in the EU and one of the highest in the world. Contributor: Nartjai Nauru - the world's smallest island nation in Yaren, Nauru - Virtual Globetrotting Yaren , Nauru (NR) Nauru, officially the Republic of Nauru and formerly known as Pleasant Island, is an island nation in Micronesia in the South Pacific.

Its nearest neighbour is Banaba Island in Kiribati, 300 km to the east. Nauru is the world's smallest island nation, covering just 21 square kilometres (8.1 sq mi). 17 Small Countries of Less Than 200 Square Miles Updated August 31, 2016. Dont't miss this Photo Gallery of the world's smallest countries. This is a comprehensive listing of the world's seventeen independent smallest countries, from smallest to largest. They each contain less than 200 square miles in area. If we combined the land area of these 17 countries, we would have a country just a bit larger than the state Rhode Island . Even tiny Singapore is too big for this list (it's 246 square miles)! ​1. Vatican City Area: 0.2 square miles Description: The world's smallest state, the Vatican has a population of 770, none of whom are permanent residents. The tiny country which surrounds St. Peter's Basilica is the spiritual center for the world's Roman Catholics (over 1 billion strong). Also known as the Holy See , Vatican City is surrounded by Rome, Italy. 2.

Monaco Area: 0.7 square miles Description: The tiny state of Monaco lies along the French Riviera on the French Mediterranean coast near Nice. An impressive 32,000 people live in this state known for its Monte Carlo casinos and Princess Grace. It has been independent off-and-on since the 13th century. continue reading below our video 4 Tips for Improving Test Performance 3. Nauru Area: 8.5 square miles Description: The 13,000 residents of the Pacific island Nauru rely on diminishing phosphate deposits. The state became independent in 1968 and was formerly known as Pleasant Island. 4. Tuvalu Area: 9 square miles Description: Tuvalu is composed of 9 coral atolls along a 360 mile chain in Polynesia. They gained independence in 1978. The former Ellice Islands are home to 12,000. 5. San Marino Area: 24 square miles Description: Located on Mt. Titano in north central Italy, San Marino has 29,000 residents. The country claims to be the oldest state in Europe, having been founded in the fourth century.

6. Liechtenstein Area: 62 square miles Description: This microstate of 34,000 is located on the Rhine River between Switzerland and Austria in the Alps. 7. Marshall Islands Area: 70 square miles Description: The atolls (including the world's largest, Kwajalein), reefs, and 34 islands (population 58,000) gained independence in 1986; they were formerly part of the Trust Territory of Pacific Islands (and administered by the United States). 8. Saint Kitts and Nevis Area: 104 square miles Description: This Caribbean country of 39,000 gained independence in 1983. Nevis is the smaller island of the two and is guaranteed the right to secede. 9​. Seychelles Area: 107 square miles Description: The 81,000 residents of this Indian Ocean island group have been independent of the United Kingdom since 1976. 10.

Maldives Area: 115 square miles Description: Only 200 of the 2000 Indian Ocean islands which make up this country are occupied by 340,000 residents. The islands gained independence from the U.K. in 1965. 11. Malta Area: 122 square miles Description: This island is just south of the Italian island of Sicily. It became independent from the United Kingdom in 1964 and the British military were completely gone by 1979. The population is 400,000. 12. Grenada Area: 133 square miles Description: This Caribbean country (population 90,000) became independent of the U.K. in 1974. It's located quite close to Venezuela. 14. Barbados Area: 166 square miles Description: About 280,000 people live on this Caribbean island, the farthest east of the Lesser Antilles. Barbados obtained independence from the U.K. in 1966. 15.

Antigua and Barbuda Area: 171 square miles Description: This Caribbean nation of 69,000 has been independent from the United Kingdom since 1981. The three islands which compose this country rely on tourism (as do many of the Caribbean countries and territories). 16. Andorra Area: 180 square miles Description: The independent Principality of Andorra is co-governed by the President of France and the Spain's Bishop of Urgel. With just over 70,000 people, this mountainous tourist destination tucked in the Pyrenees between France and Spain has been independent since 1278. 17. Palau Area: 191 square miles Description: Palau (also known as Belau) was a Trust Territory of Pacific Islands. It was formerly known as the Carolines and is composed of more than 200 islands in the Pacific; the population is about 20,000. It became independent in 1994.

The 10 Smallest States in the World - Wonderslist WondersList by Ahsan Hayat There are 193 states in the world – all recognized by the United Nations and members. Together comprise the ten smallest countries of this world so much that their surface area if put together is still smaller than Mexico City, which covers 1,499 square kilometers of urban area. Here, below are 10 of the world’s smallest states, some of these has no armed forces at all. 1. Vatican City State Sacred football field. The sovereign city center of Rome does not belong to the United Nations, however, is recognized as an independent state internationally. Between 800 and 900 people living on an area that covers 0.44 square kilometers. 572 of them have a Vatican citizenship. This will only be awarded in connection with certain functions in the state. All the others are something like immigrants. In order to supply the tiny area as environmentally friendly as possible with energy, there is a solar power plant the size of a football field for additional alternative energy. The Vatican City covers approximately 50 streets, one’s own train station and a heliport.

There is even a football team that plays for the Vatican. 2. Principality of Monaco Tax haven. Greek settlers founded in the 5th century, the foundation for today’s tax haven on the coast of France. Since February 25, 1489, the state is independent and attracts a lot of people. The principality is overall abounding on the 2.02-square-kilometer area with 17,889 inhabitants per square kilometer footprint. It’s amongst the most scenic places of Europe and way to Formula One Racing . The fact that they are doing very well despite the social density, based on the control system of Monaco, exists no direct tax liability for individuals. Neither the income tax nor an inheritance tax is levied here. No wonder that this Manhattan is booming on the Mediterranean and still always attracts rich from around the world. 3. Republic of Nauru Pleasant Island.

Deiboe, Eamwidamit, Eamwidara, Eamwit, Eamgum, Eano, EMEO, Eoraru, Irutsi, Iruwa, Iwi and Ranibok were the names of the twelve tribes, who lived one day at the coral island in the Pacific Ocean. It reminds of the twelve-pointed star on the national flag of Nauru. Here is 10 tribes that avoided globalized civilization . Today, the 21-square-mile kingdom is divided into 14 districts, in which around 10,175 people live. By the year 2001, it was revealed in such a high standard of living that the island was partly explained as the real paradise. The economy was based at that time on the phosphate mining. Since 2001, when the phosphate reserves were exhausted, the situation and the standard of living extremely changed. Since then, the nation’s finances are moving more to the brink of bankruptcy and the state budget is dependent on Australian grants. 4. Tuvalu Ellice Islands. Dismissed from the British Commonwealth in 1974. At that time the island was called Ellice Islands.

In 1978 it was renamed Tuvalu and recorded as a sovereign state within the Commonwealth of Nations. 25 square kilometers accommodate approximately 10,500 inhabitants. The highest point of the island is five meters above sea level. Most of the inhabitants live on agriculture and fisheries. 5. Republic of San Marino State veteran. San Marino is not only one of the five smallest states in the world, but it is also the oldest republic. In the year 301 to Marinus, a Christian stonemason from Croatia, have fled to Mount Titano. Today, about 32,500 people possess the citizenship of 60.57 square meter state in the middle of Italy. Around 12,800 of them are living abroad. 6. Principality of Liechtenstein Hard-fought. The 160.47 square meter territory got its political independence in 1806. Until then, it was incessantly occupied repeatedly by different forces; Germans and French namely. The Principality is the only state that lies entirely in the Alps.

The highest point is Mount Liechtenstein Front Grauspitz with a height of 2,599 meters, the deepest the Ruggeller Riet at 430 meters above sea level. Eleven communities exist in Liechtenstein. Approximately 36 942 people live there, around 12,000 of them are foreigners. 7. Republic of the Marshall Islands Island Puzzle. Two meter high towers, the highest point of the Republic of the Marshall Islands in the Pacific Ocean. The land area of the islands comprises 181.3 square kilometers. They are divided into two almost parallel island or atoll chains, focusing on an area of almost two million square kilometers that extends in the ocean. Existing since 1986 Republic became known for its 54,600 residents by the atomic bomb tests in the 50s. They took place just 160 kilometers from Bikini Atoll. One amongst the most romantic places worldwide . 8. Cook Islands Special. In international law, the Cook Islands are a special feature. Although the 240-square-kilometer territory in the South Pacific is considered as an independent country.

However, it has the status “in free association with New Zealand “. Nearly 18,600 residents but have no own nationality, they are officially New Zealanders. State is divided in eleven island councils. The largest island covers 65 square kilometers and is inhabited by almost 15,000 inhabitants. The smallest is the island Palmerston live on about 50 people on an area of 2.1 square kilometers. These Islands are considered one of the best honeymoon locations . 9. Niue Lonely Paradise. Similar to the Cook Islands, the 261.4 square kilometers in size Niue island is considered as an independent state. It also does not have its own citizenship and is associated with New Zealand. With a population density of 5.2 people per square kilometer, it is one of the loneliest countries in the world .The approximately 1,300 inhabitants are spread across 13 villages and several small settlements. Niue has an airport, but does not have a port. Goods arriving by sea are transshipped by barge. There are only 900 internet users on Niue and nearly 400,000 nu country domains. 10.

Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis A double-edged destination. The two islands of St. Kitts and Nevis were discovered in the Caribbean by Christopher Columbus in 1493, but got settled in the early 17th century. 269 square miles of territory was incorporated as an independent state to the British Empire. Today 50, 314 inhabitants live on the two islands. It was revealed in 2008 that St. Kitts had one of the highest murder rates per capita . Nevertheless, the two islands are popular tourist destinations especially for tourists from the United States.

Question: At 21 square kilometers, which is the world's smallest island nation?
Answer: NAURU